A selected kind of water heating equipment characterised by its 50-gallon tank capability and a shortened, wider (“lowboy”) type issue. This equipment is electrically powered and sometimes out there for buy at main dwelling enchancment retailers. Its defining options make it appropriate for installations the place vertical area is proscribed, equivalent to crawl areas or underneath counters.
The lowered top and bigger footprint provide a sensible resolution in confined areas, maximizing scorching water capability with out requiring important vertical clearance. Electrically powered fashions present a comparatively clear and environment friendly vitality supply, eliminating the necessity for fuel strains. These components contribute to the equipment’s worth for owners in search of space-saving and handy scorching water options. Traditionally, the design advanced to deal with limitations in older houses with restricted utility areas.
The following sections will delve into the precise issues for choosing, putting in, and sustaining such a water heater, highlighting components like vitality effectivity scores, set up necessities, and long-term efficiency.
1. Capability
The “50 gallon” designation throughout the descriptor instantly refers back to the water heater’s capability, representing the amount of scorching water the tank can retailer at a given time. This can be a vital specification as a result of it dictates the equipment’s means to satisfy the recent water calls for of a family. Inadequate capability leads to intervals the place scorching water provide can’t meet simultaneous utilization, inflicting discomfort and inconvenience. As an illustration, a household with a number of occupants may expertise chilly water interruptions throughout showers if scorching water is getting used elsewhere in the home concurrently.
The connection between capability and family demand is paramount. A 50-gallon tank sometimes fits households with 2-4 occupants, balancing storage quantity with area effectivity. Components affecting capability wants embody the variety of showers taken every day, frequency of laundry and dishwashing, and the local weather, which impacts inlet water temperature. Bigger households, or these with excessive scorching water consumption habits, could require bigger tank sizes or tankless water heaters to adequately fulfill their wants. The lowboy design, by prioritizing a shorter, wider tank form, permits this capability to be achieved inside space-constrained environments, offering a sensible resolution the place standard-height items are infeasible.
In abstract, the 50-gallon capability element is a basic attribute. Matching capability to the precise utilization patterns of a family is crucial for optimizing comfort and avoiding scorching water shortages. Cautious consideration of family measurement, utilization habits, and spatial constraints is critical for choosing the appropriately sized water heater and realizing its supposed profit.
2. Dimensions
The “lowboy” facet of the “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater dwelling depot” descriptor instantly references its bodily dimensions, particularly its lowered top in comparison with customary water heaters. This attribute is central to its utility in areas with restricted vertical area. The designation “lowboy” implies a design prioritizing a shorter profile and a wider diameter to keep up the 50-gallon capability. Ignoring these dimensions through the choice course of can result in set up challenges or outright incompatibility with the supposed location. For instance, trying to put in a standard-height 50-gallon water heater underneath a low-slung counter or inside a crawl area could be impractical because of inadequate clearance.
Exact dimensional specs are essential for making certain correct match and accessibility for upkeep. These measurements embody top, diameter, and the place of inlet/outlet connections. Set up manuals and product listings at main retailers, equivalent to Residence Depot, present this knowledge. Prior to buy, meticulous measurement of the out there area and comparability with the product dimensions is critical. Even slight discrepancies can necessitate pricey modifications to the encompassing construction or the number of a special mannequin. Think about a situation the place a home-owner neglects to account for the added top of the drain valve; this oversight may render the unit inconceivable to empty with out main disassembly.
Due to this fact, the dimensional facet is just not merely a trivial element however a defining attribute of the lowboy design. Correct evaluation of spatial constraints and cautious verification of the product dimensions are paramount to a profitable set up and the belief of the supposed space-saving advantages. Neglecting this step can lead to pointless issues and bills, underscoring the sensible significance of understanding and adhering to the dimensional specs.
3. Electrical Necessities
{The electrical} necessities symbolize a basic facet of the “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater dwelling depot,” dictating the precise electrical infrastructure mandatory for its protected and environment friendly operation. Understanding these necessities is crucial for making certain correct set up and stopping electrical hazards or operational failures.
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Voltage and Amperage
{The electrical} water heater operates on a selected voltage (sometimes 240V in North America) and attracts a corresponding amperage decided by its heating ingredient wattage. Failure to match the water heater’s voltage requirement to {the electrical} provide will end in malfunction or harm. Supplying inadequate amperage will journey circuit breakers, whereas exceeding the rated voltage may trigger catastrophic failure. Product specs available at retailers like Residence Depot clearly state these values, mandating adherence throughout set up.
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Circuit Breaker and Wiring
A devoted circuit breaker of the suitable amperage score is essential. The wiring linked to the water heater should even be sized to deal with the utmost present draw safely. Utilizing undersized wiring is a hearth hazard, as it will possibly overheat and ignite surrounding supplies. Native electrical codes mandate particular wire gauges primarily based on amperage and distance, making certain electrical security and stopping voltage drops that may cut back heating effectivity. This adherence to electrical codes is a non-negotiable facet of a code compliant set up.
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Grounding
Correct grounding is vital for electrical security. The water heater’s metallic casing have to be successfully grounded to stop electrical shock within the occasion of a fault. That is achieved by connecting a grounding wire from the water heater to {the electrical} panel’s grounding bus. Absence of correct grounding creates a big security threat, probably exposing people to hazardous voltage ranges. This can be a primary and important security customary.
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Disconnect Swap
Set up of a devoted disconnect swap close to the water heater is usually required by electrical codes. This swap permits for safely disconnecting the facility provide throughout upkeep or repairs. This swap permits for de-energizing the water heater when mandatory with out going to the breaker panel. Offering an area disconnect facilitates servicing and prevents unintentional energizing whereas work is being carried out, adhering to straightforward security protocols.
In abstract, {the electrical} calls for aren’t merely technical particulars however safety-critical specs. Cautious consideration to voltage, amperage, wiring, grounding, and disconnect swap necessities is obligatory for making certain protected, code-compliant operation of a “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater dwelling depot.” Failure to deal with these components can result in hazardous situations, gear harm, and code violations, underscoring their very important significance.
4. Set up House
The phrase “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater dwelling depot” inherently implies a consideration of set up area. The “lowboy” descriptor indicators a design tailor-made for environments with restricted vertical clearance. The 50-gallon capability necessitates a sure footprint, making a trade-off between top and horizontal area required for correct set up. Insufficient planning for set up area instantly leads to both an incapability to put in the unit or non-compliant installations that probably violate constructing codes and compromise security. For instance, a home-owner may buy the unit intending to put in it inside a crawl area, solely to find that the scale, even with the “lowboy” design, forestall ample entry for upkeep or code-required clearances from flamable supplies.
The sensible utility of understanding set up area extends past merely becoming the equipment. Enough clearance across the unit is essential for servicing and repairs. Confined areas hinder entry to parts such because the heating components, thermostats, and drain valve, complicating routine upkeep and probably rising restore prices. Furthermore, native plumbing codes typically mandate particular clearances for entry and air flow. Failing to stick to those codes can lead to failed inspections and necessitate pricey rework. Owners should meticulously measure the supposed set up space, accounting for all dimensions, together with top, width, and depth, in addition to any obstructions or limitations imposed by present constructions or utilities. Moreover, consideration have to be given to the routing {of electrical} wiring and plumbing connections, making certain they don’t impede entry or create security hazards.
In abstract, the consideration of set up area is inextricably linked to the choice and implementation of a “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater dwelling depot”. Overlooking this vital facet can result in set up failures, code violations, security hazards, and elevated upkeep prices. Correct planning, correct measurement, and adherence to native constructing codes are important for a profitable and compliant set up, making certain the equipment operates safely and effectively inside its supposed atmosphere. Prioritizing this facet prevents probably pricey and disruptive issues down the road.
5. Vitality Effectivity
Vitality effectivity represents an important consideration within the choice and operation of a “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater dwelling depot”. It instantly impacts working prices, environmental footprint, and long-term worth. The unit’s means to attenuate vitality consumption whereas delivering ample scorching water is a main think about evaluating its total efficiency and suitability.
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Vitality Issue (EF) Score
The Vitality Issue (EF) score is a standardized metric measuring the general vitality effectivity of a water heater. It considers restoration effectivity, standby losses, and biking losses. A better EF score signifies higher effectivity, translating to decrease vitality consumption and lowered utility payments. For instance, a unit with an EF of 0.95 will eat considerably much less vitality than one with an EF of 0.80 to supply the identical quantity of scorching water. Within the context of a “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater dwelling depot,” scrutinizing the EF score is paramount for minimizing operational bills over the equipment’s lifespan.
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Insulation
Efficient insulation is prime to minimizing standby warmth loss. A well-insulated tank retains warmth for longer intervals, decreasing the frequency with which the heating components activate to keep up water temperature. Larger-quality insulation leads to lowered vitality waste and decrease working prices. Evaluating the insulation thickness and kind of fabric is crucial when deciding on a “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater dwelling depot.” Thicker insulation instantly correlates with lowered warmth loss, yielding tangible financial savings on vitality payments. Polyurethane foam is a standard and efficient insulation materials.
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Standby Warmth Loss
Standby warmth loss refers back to the quantity of warmth a water heater loses to the encompassing atmosphere when not in lively use. That is an unavoidable consequence of sustaining a tank of scorching water. Decrease standby warmth loss contributes on to higher vitality effectivity. Producers make use of varied methods to attenuate standby warmth loss, together with improved insulation, warmth traps, and superior tank designs. Inspecting the standby warmth loss specs for a “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater dwelling depot” is vital for projecting long-term vitality prices. Minimizing this warmth loss will forestall cash waste.
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Sensible Options and Programmability
Some trendy electrical water heaters incorporate “sensible” options and programmability to optimize vitality consumption. These options could embody timers that permit for scheduling heating cycles to coincide with intervals of excessive demand, trip modes that cut back vitality utilization when the house is unoccupied, and studying algorithms that adapt to particular person utilization patterns. Integration of those applied sciences inside a “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater dwelling depot” can additional improve vitality effectivity and cut back working prices by tailoring scorching water availability to precise want, fairly than sustaining a relentless temperature, additional rising EF.
These vitality effectivity issues collectively affect the full value of possession and environmental affect of a “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater dwelling depot.” Choosing a unit with a excessive EF score, efficient insulation, low standby warmth loss, and sensible options interprets to tangible financial savings over the equipment’s lifespan and a lowered carbon footprint. Prioritizing vitality effectivity is each economically and environmentally accountable.
6. Price
The monetary facet is a main determinant within the acquisition and long-term operation of a “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater dwelling depot”. Price issues prolong past the preliminary buy value and embody set up bills, operational prices, and potential upkeep or restore expenditures.
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Preliminary Buy Value
The upfront value represents the preliminary funding required to amass the water heater unit. Costs can range primarily based on model, options (equivalent to sensible know-how or enhanced insulation), and retailer promotions. Usually, Residence Depot affords a variety of fashions at completely different value factors, reflecting various ranges of effectivity and options. Whereas a decrease preliminary value could seem interesting, it’s essential to contemplate the long-term value implications of a much less environment friendly mannequin.
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Set up Prices
Set up prices comprise labor charges and any mandatory supplies past the unit itself. Skilled set up ensures compliance with native plumbing and electrical codes, mitigating potential security hazards. The complexity of the set up can affect the associated fee; as an example, changing an present unit in the identical location is usually inexpensive than a brand new set up requiring new plumbing or electrical work. Residence Depot typically affords set up providers, offering a bundled value estimate for the unit and its set up.
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Operational Prices (Vitality Consumption)
The continued operational bills are primarily pushed by electrical energy consumption. Electrical water heaters eat important vitality to warmth and preserve water temperature. The Vitality Issue (EF) score serves as a vital indicator of vitality effectivity; the next EF score interprets to decrease vitality consumption and lowered month-to-month utility payments. Whereas a extra environment friendly mannequin could have the next preliminary value, the long-term financial savings on vitality prices can offset this preliminary funding. This must be factored to seek out probably the most optimum value.
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Upkeep and Restore Prices
Over its lifespan, a water heater could require upkeep or repairs. Potential points embody sediment buildup, heating ingredient failure, thermostat malfunction, or tank leakage. Preventative upkeep, equivalent to periodic draining and flushing to take away sediment, can prolong the lifespan of the unit and cut back the chance of pricey repairs. Guarantee protection can mitigate restore prices throughout the specified guarantee interval. Correct and well timed upkeep results in cut back value.
These parts collectively outline the full value of possession for a “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater dwelling depot”. A complete evaluation necessitates contemplating not solely the preliminary buy value but additionally the continued operational and upkeep bills. Whereas Residence Depot gives a wide range of choices, starting from budget-friendly to high-efficiency fashions, deciding on probably the most cost-effective selection requires an intensive analysis of particular person wants, utilization patterns, and long-term monetary implications. Sensible buy can mitigate future value.
7. Guarantee
The guarantee related to a “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater dwelling depot” represents a contractual settlement offered by the producer, outlining the phrases of restore or alternative within the occasion of defects or malfunctions inside a specified interval. Its presence instantly impacts the monetary threat assumed by the purchaser, offering a level of safety towards untimely failure and related bills. The size and scope of the guarantee range amongst producers and fashions, sometimes masking components, labor, or each, for intervals starting from one to 10 years. As an illustration, a guaranty masking tank leakage for ten years gives substantial assurance towards a very pricey failure mode, whereas a shorter guarantee restricted to components solely locations higher monetary duty on the house owner for labor prices.
The sensible significance of understanding the guarantee phrases lies in knowledgeable decision-making and proactive upkeep. A complete guarantee reduces the potential out-of-pocket bills related to repairs or replacements through the protection interval. Think about a situation the place a heating ingredient fails throughout the guarantee interval. A guaranty masking each components and labor would alleviate the whole value of the restore, whereas a parts-only guarantee would nonetheless require the house owner to pay for the electrician’s service name. Moreover, sure actions, equivalent to improper set up or failure to carry out routine upkeep (e.g., draining sediment), could void the guarantee. Due to this fact, adherence to producer’s directions and really helpful upkeep procedures is essential for preserving guarantee protection and maximizing its advantages. Failure to comply with pointers would void your guarantee declare
In abstract, the guarantee is an integral element of the worth proposition of a “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater dwelling depot”. It serves as a monetary security internet, mitigating the chance of surprising restore or alternative prices. Nevertheless, its effectiveness depends upon an intensive understanding of its phrases, adherence to upkeep necessities, and correct set up practices. The problem lies in fastidiously evaluating the guarantee’s scope and period alongside different components, equivalent to vitality effectivity and buy value, to make an knowledgeable resolution that balances value and threat mitigation.
8. Availability
The provision of a “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater” at Residence Depot considerably influences client selections and venture timelines. Restricted or inconsistent inventory instantly impacts a home-owner’s means to promptly deal with water heater failures or full new development requiring this particular equipment kind. This equipment, with its space-saving design, caters to particular set up wants the place vertical area is a constraint. If Residence Depot, a significant retailer, experiences frequent stockouts, shoppers face potential delays, forcing them to both postpone tasks, search various fashions that will not completely match their wants, or discover different retailers, impacting model loyalty and probably rising prices because of variations in pricing.
Residence Depot’s provide chain administration and stock management instantly dictate the product’s accessibility. Components equivalent to seasonal demand peaks, materials shortages, or logistical disruptions can result in fluctuating availability. The retailer’s on-line platform and in-store inventory monitoring programs turn into essential instruments for shoppers trying to establish product availability earlier than committing to a purchase order. For instance, a home-owner going through a sudden water heater failure would depend on correct stock info to find out if an appropriate alternative is instantly obtainable. The retailer’s capability to precisely forecast demand and preserve ample inventory ranges turns into important in assembly buyer wants and minimizing inconvenience. Provide constraints will have an effect on shoppers by limiting the product out there and enhance in value.
In the end, the dependable availability of a “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater” at Residence Depot is vital for each the retailer’s fame and buyer satisfaction. Constant inventory ranges be sure that shoppers can readily receive the required equipment to satisfy their scorching water wants, with out experiencing disruptive delays or compelled compromises. Environment friendly provide chain administration and clear stock info are key to optimizing availability and sustaining a aggressive edge available in the market.
9. Lifespan
The lifespan of a “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater” bought from Residence Depot represents a vital think about evaluating its long-term worth and cost-effectiveness. The time period signifies the interval throughout which the equipment reliably gives scorching water earlier than requiring alternative because of irreparable failure. A number of components instantly affect this lifespan, together with water high quality, upkeep practices, and the standard of the unit’s parts. As an illustration, arduous water containing excessive mineral content material accelerates scale buildup throughout the tank, decreasing heating effectivity and finally shortening the equipment’s operational life. Conversely, common draining and flushing to take away sediment can mitigate scale accumulation and prolong the unit’s longevity. The “lowboy” design, whereas space-saving, doesn’t inherently have an effect on lifespan, however the accessibility for upkeep that it gives because of its wider footprint, may facilitate extra common care.
Understanding the components that have an effect on lifespan informs proactive upkeep methods. For instance, putting in a water softener in areas with arduous water considerably reduces mineral scale buildup, defending the heating components and tank from untimely failure. Equally, adhering to the producer’s really helpful upkeep schedule, together with periodic draining and anode rod inspection, can establish and deal with potential issues earlier than they escalate into main repairs or necessitate alternative. Ignoring these preventative measures will inevitably result in a lower in lifespan, leading to extra frequent replacements and elevated long-term prices. The fee effectiveness of the “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater dwelling depot” is expounded to its life span.
In abstract, the lifespan is just not a hard and fast attribute however fairly a variable decided by each inherent product high quality and exterior components. Proactive upkeep, together with water high quality administration and adherence to producer suggestions, maximizes the operational lifetime of the equipment, safeguarding the preliminary funding and minimizing long-term bills. Whereas Residence Depot affords a variety of water heaters with various options and value factors, prioritizing fashions with sturdy parts and implementing correct upkeep practices are essential for reaching the anticipated lifespan and realizing the total worth of the “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater”.
Incessantly Requested Questions
This part addresses widespread inquiries concerning the choice, set up, and operation of a 50-gallon lowboy electrical water heater sourced from Residence Depot.
Query 1: What are the first benefits of a “lowboy” design in an electrical water heater?
The first benefit lies in its lowered top, making it appropriate for installations the place vertical area is proscribed, equivalent to crawl areas or underneath counters. This design permits for sustaining a 50-gallon capability whereas accommodating spatial constraints.
Query 2: Does Residence Depot provide set up providers for such a water heater?
Sure, Residence Depot sometimes gives set up providers carried out by licensed contractors. These providers often embody elimination of the previous unit, set up of the brand new water heater, and connection to present plumbing and electrical programs.
Query 3: What’s the typical lifespan of a 50-gallon lowboy electrical water heater?
The lifespan varies relying on water high quality, utilization patterns, and upkeep practices. Nevertheless, a correctly maintained unit can sometimes final between 8 to 12 years.
Query 4: What electrical necessities are mandatory for set up?
These water heaters sometimes require a 240V electrical provide with a devoted circuit breaker. Particular amperage necessities range relying on the mannequin and wattage of the heating components. Adherence to native electrical codes is obligatory.
Query 5: How does the Vitality Issue (EF) score affect operational prices?
The Vitality Issue (EF) score signifies the water heater’s vitality effectivity. A better EF score signifies decrease vitality consumption and lowered utility payments. This score ought to be fastidiously thought of to find out whole value of possession.
Query 6: What upkeep is required to lengthen the lifetime of this equipment?
Common upkeep contains periodic draining and flushing to take away sediment buildup, inspection and alternative of the anode rod, and verification of correct thermostat operation. These steps will drastically enhance its life expectancy.
This FAQ part serves as a fast reference for addressing widespread considerations. Seek the advice of product specs {and professional} installers for detailed info pertaining to particular fashions and set up situations.
The next part will present info to boost person understanding and help in making well-informed selections.
Skilled Ideas for “50 Gallon Lowboy Electrical Water Heater Residence Depot”
This part gives key suggestions for optimum choice, set up, and operation of this particular equipment, specializing in maximizing effectivity, lifespan, and security.
Tip 1: Prioritize Correct Measurement: Earlier than buying, meticulously measure the supposed set up area, accounting for all dimensions, together with top, width, and depth, in addition to entry clearances for future upkeep. Failure to take action could end in set up issues or the number of an unsuitable mannequin.
Tip 2: Scrutinize Vitality Issue (EF) Rankings: Evaluate EF scores throughout completely different fashions to establish probably the most energy-efficient choice. A better EF score interprets on to decrease operational prices over the equipment’s lifespan. Think about long run value of operation fairly than upfront buy value.
Tip 3: Guarantee Code-Compliant Electrical Set up: Have interaction a licensed electrician to make sure correct electrical connections, grounding, and circuit breaker sizing. Non-compliance with electrical codes poses important security hazards and potential property harm. Additionally, this can void guarantee declare.
Tip 4: Implement Common Sediment Elimination: Schedule periodic draining and flushing of the water heater to take away sediment buildup. Sediment accumulation reduces heating effectivity and shortens the lifespan of the heating components. Draining frequency depends upon water hardness.
Tip 5: Examine and Substitute the Anode Rod: The anode rod protects the tank from corrosion. Examine it yearly and exchange it when depleted to increase the tank’s lifespan. Neglecting this could trigger corrosion and result in untimely tank failure.
Tip 6: Confirm Guarantee Protection Particulars: Rigorously evaluate the guarantee phrases and situations, together with the period of protection and any exclusions. Adhere to really helpful upkeep procedures to keep up guarantee validity. Maintain proof of buy and upkeep data.
Tip 7: Think about a Water Softener for Arduous Water Areas: If the water provide is characterised by excessive mineral content material, think about putting in a water softener to mitigate scale buildup and lengthen the equipment’s lifespan. This can present long run advantages and elevated lifespan.
The following tips, when carried out, will contribute considerably to maximizing the efficiency, security, and longevity of the equipment, making certain a dependable and cost-effective scorching water provide.
The following part presents the conclusion, summarizing key takeaways and reinforcing the significance of knowledgeable decision-making.
Conclusion
The previous evaluation has explored vital aspects of the “50 gallon lowboy electrical water heater dwelling depot”, encompassing capability, dimensions, electrical wants, set up area, vitality effectivity, value, guarantee, availability, and lifespan. Every ingredient warrants cautious consideration to make sure correct choice, set up, and long-term operation. Disregarding any single facet could yield suboptimal efficiency, elevated operational prices, or untimely equipment failure.
Due to this fact, potential purchasers are urged to meticulously consider their particular wants and constraints, consulting with certified professionals when mandatory, to make knowledgeable selections that maximize worth and decrease threat. Prudent planning and proactive upkeep are important for realizing the total potential of this equipment and reaching a dependable, cost-effective scorching water resolution for years to return. Cautious analysis ensures knowledgeable selections.